Along Mexico’s Riviera Maya, you will find the small beach town of Akumal, meaning the “Place of the Turtle.” Every year between May and October, Akumal turtles emerge from the water to lay their eggs on beaches throughout the Riviera Maya. Thousands of travelers make their way to our aptly named beach town every year for a one-of-a-kind opportunity to swim with turtles!  

Stay with Riviera Maya Haciendas in one of our Akumal villas and experience the magic of swimming with turtles in their natural habitat.

A Few Facts about Akumal Turtles

The beaches and bays surrounding Akumal are critical natural habitats for turtles. During May-October, Akumal turtles nest along our beaches to lay their eggs in the sand and feed on seagrass. Of seven sea turtle species, four can be found in Quintana Roo, including the leatherback, loggerhead, hawksbill, and white turtle. Here are a few rules when you are swimming with turtles:

• Do not touch the turtles, and stay at least 15 feet away
• No flippers or snorkel fins
• Use only biodegradable sunscreen

Local Tours to Swim with Turtles in Akumal

Keep in mind that it is illegal to swim at Akumal beach without a tour guide. So, if you want to swim with Akumal turtles, you must book a tour with companies like Akumal Dive Shop or Ocean Tours. 

Akumal Dive Shop

Akumal Dive Shop offers a fantastic Bay Snorkeling Tour where visitors can swim with turtles. Your tour includes a certified guide, snorkeling equipment, lockers, and showers. Snorkel through Akumal Bay and keep your eyes peeled for turtles, spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks, barracudas, lobsters, and coral. If you are scuba certified, you can enjoy even more opportunities to witness turtles at our Akumal dive sites. 

Ocean Tours

Ocean Tours offers fantastic family-friendly snorkeling tours in Akumal Bay. The Snorkel with Sea Turtles in Akumal Bay tour includes a bilingual guide, round-trip transportation, snacks, bottled water, and snorkel gear. Explore Akumal Bay and look for sea turtles, tropical fish, coral, rock formations, and rays. Afterward, your guides will take you to swim in an ancient cenote. Tour pick-ups can be arranged from Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum areas. 

Riviera Maya Akumal Vacation Rentals

Start planning your Mexico getaway, and join us for Akumal turtle nesting season! We represent luxury vacation rentals throughout the Riviera Maya, including two properties in Akumal. Villa Bellamar is a beautiful 13-bedroom villa that can host up to 40 guests, while our Villa Alma Rosa is a four-bedroom retreat for up to 12 guests. If these properties don’t meet your criteria, browse our collection of over 60 vacation rentals in the Riviera Maya.

Mexico is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and if you are looking for a destination where you can lounge on the warm white sand while feeling the Caribbean breeze, look no further than the Riviera Maya! Our Riviera Maya beaches offer something for everyone, whether you want to relax or dive in with watersports like surfing, snorkeling, and kayaking. Choose Riviera Maya Haciendas to host your getaway, and you will be centrally located to the best beaches in the region, from Playa del Carmen to Akumal Beach!

1. Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen offers 75 miles of sandy shoreline and is one of the only towns built directly on the beach. The beaches are popular here year-round, but Riviera Maya Haciendas offers private access to Playacar Beach with our luxury vacation rentals. Access the finest white sands of the Mexican Caribbean just a short walk from your rental property!

2. Puerto Morelos

Twenty minutes from Cancun, you will find Puerto Morelos, a laidback beach with a bit of something for everyone. This family-friendly beach offers the perfect place to hang out for the day, with convenient beach bars and restaurants lining the coastline. Snorkeling and diving at the National Reef Park are the most popular activities here.

3. Akumal Beach

Akumal Beach is one of the most popular Riviera Maya beaches, where visitors have a unique opportunity to swim with sea turtles! Sign up for a local snorkel tour and swim with these magical turtles during your Mexico getaway. And stay close to the action with our Akumal Beach vacation rentals. 

4. Playa Norte

Playa Norte is located on Isla Mujeres, only accessible through a fifteen-minute ferry ride from Cancun. North Beach is considered one of Mexico’s best beaches, offering picturesque soft white sand, palm trees, and crystal clear water. This beach is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. Stay in Isla Mujeres with Riviera Maya Haciendas!

5. Paamul Beach

If you are looking for a Riviera Maya beach off the beaten path and away from the crowds of other touristy beaches, then Paamul Beach is for you! The white sand and calm turquoise waters are fantastic spots for suntanning, snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming. 

6. Xpu-Ha Beach

Just south of Puerto Aventuras is Xpu-Ha Beach, a perfect place to escape the crowds while still having access to convenient amenities. The beach has become more prevalent recently, with hotels, restaurants, and beach clubs lining the shores. This makes renting watersport equipment like paddleboards, snorkeling gear, kayaks, and jet skis easy.

Riviera Maya Vacation Rentals near the Beach

Riviera Maya Haciendas offers vacation rentals in some of Mexico’s most popular vacation destinations, from Tulum to Playa del Carmen and Akumal. No matter where you decide to stay, beautiful Riviera Maya beaches can be found just down the road! We offer the perfect property for everyone, whether you want to bring the whole family along or want to plan a romantic getaway for two. Discover our haciendas, luxury villas, and cozy condos, and start planning your Mexico beach getaway today!

The Riviera Maya is one of Mexico’s most sought-after vacation destinations, home to the bustling beach towns of Tulum and Cancun. Both cities offer very different experiences for travelers, so deciding which is suitable for you depends on your personal preferences. Cancun appeals to vacationers looking for an energetic resort setting, while Tulum appeals to the more laid-back traveler who wants to stay closer to nature. 

We are here to give you a breakdown of Tulum vs. Cancun so that you can find the right destination for you! Regardless of your choice, Riviera Maya Haciendas has you covered with our luxury vacation rentals in both locations.

The Basics Tulum vs. Cancun

Deciding between Tulum vs. Cancun all depends on you! Both locations offer stunning white-sand beaches, sparkling water, and easy access to Mayan ruins. And if you want to experience both of these incredible destinations, they are only 80 miles apart!

What is Cancun Like for Visitors?

• Beaches are picturesque but are usually busy.
• Cancun has a more extensive selection of chain hotels and restaurants, known as the Hotel Zone.
• As one of Mexico’s most popular spring break and party destinations, it should be no surprise that Cancun is bustling with nightlife, clubs, and bars.
• As the most visited city in Mexico, the entire town is very tourist oriented
• Cancun is easily accessible, with flights from most major cities to the Cancun Airport.
• If you are looking for a destination where you can walk to most attractions, then Cancun is for you!

Notable Attractions & Activities in Cancun

There are endless possibilities for your Cancun vacation. Playa Delfines is the largest beach in the city and the only stretch that doesn’t backdrop the Hotel Zone. The main boulevard at Avenida Kukulkan is the hub for resorts, shopping malls, and restaurants. Discover an underwater adventure of a lifetime at MUSA Underwater Museum or learn about Mayan history at the Mayan Museum of Cancun or El Rey Maya Ruins.

What is Tulum Like for Visitors?

• Tulum is known for offering quieter and less developed beaches
• The city is known for its boutique hotels and restaurants
• Tulum offers a more authentic experience of Mexico, away from the tourist attractions of Cancun.
• Tulum is a paradise for nature lovers, with cenotes, jungles, abundant wildlife, and biodiversity.

Notable Attractions in Tulum

The most popular attraction is the Tulum Archaeological Site, known as one of the last cities inhabited by the Maya people. Tulum is also known for its cenotes, popular spots for swimming, scuba diving, and snorkeling. You can also find access to Xcaret adventure parks and wildlife preserves here.

Tulum & Cancun Vacation Rentals

Now that you know more about Tulum vs. Cancun, you can start planning your Mexico vacation with Riviera Maya Haciendas. We offer three beautiful six-bedroom villas in Cancun and 30 vacation rentals in Tulum. Our Tulum properties range from one to fourteen bedrooms to accommodate groups of all sizes. Discover the perfect home base for any vacation along the Riviera Maya with us today!

Mexico is an ideal destination for honeymooners looking to combine adventure with romantic relaxation. With incredible white sand beaches, crystal clear Caribbean waters, fascinating historic sites, enchanting cenotes, and diverse eco-parks, there is no better place to plan your honeymoon than the Riviera Maya! Make your honeymoon dreams a reality by staying in a luxury vacation rental with Riviera Maya Haciendas. Our team makes it easy to tailor your special occasion with our five-star service and fantastic amenities that help you create memories to last a lifetime. 

Choose from our rentals in Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Aventuras, Cancun, Akumal, or Tulum, and start planning your Riviera Maya honeymoon today!

Riviera Maya Honeymoon Activities

Explore Riviera Maya Cenotes

One of the unique attractions in the Riviera Maya is cenotes, offering a one-of-a-kind exploration for your honeymoon! Explore these freshwater pools by diving, snorkeling, or swimming.

Step Into the Past at Historic Sites

The Riviera Maya is a wonderful honeymoon destination for history lovers! Gain a deep understanding of Mexico’s history at archaeological sites like Chichen Itza, Tulum Archaeological Zone, and Coba Ruins.

Embark on a Romantic Sunset Dinner Cruise

Nothing is more romantic than embarking on a cruise into the Caribbean at sunset. Riviera Maya Catamarans offers a luxury private dinner sail, where you will enjoy cocktails, coastline views at sunset, bay exploration, and an exquisite surf and turf meal! If you are looking for a romantic tour in Cancun, we recommend Columbus Cruise.

Discover Endless Adventures at Eco-Parks

Eco-parks allow adventurous couples to participate in fun activities in the most naturally beautiful areas of the Riviera Maya. Discover more than 50 natural and cultural attractions at Xcaret. Or choose one of the parks like Xplor or Xavage and discover zip lines, whitewater rafting, jungle exploration, and paddling canals.

Where to Stay for Your Riviera Maya Honeymoon

We offer a variety of beautiful accommodations for your Riviera Maya honeymoon. Start by browsing our cozy condos in Puerto Aventuras and stay in the heart of the action near beaches, shops, restaurants, and water activities.

We have a property for everyone; start planning your honeymoon with Riviera Maya Haciendas today! 
Learn more about planning your wedding with us on our events page and by reading our blog, Plan a Beautiful Destination Wedding in Mexico.

Located between Playa Del Carmen and Tulum, you will discover Puerto Aventuras, a laidback beach town that offers the perfect gateway to endless Mexico adventures. If you are interested in visiting Puerto Aventuras, you’ve come to the right place because Riviera Maya Haciendas is here to guide you every step of the way! This post will cover the best ways to get here, what to do, and where to stay in Puerto Aventuras.

Where is Puerto Aventuras?

Puerto Aventuras is a small beach town in the state of Quintana Roo along the beautiful Riviera Maya. It is located approximately 20 minutes from Playa del Carmen, 40 minutes from Tulum, and just over an hour from Cancun. Keep in mind that Puerto Aventuras is split into two sections, a residential area and the tourist area east of Highway 307. The latter is where you will find most of our local bars, restaurants, and accommodations. 

How do I Get to Puerto Aventuras?

The most accessible and affordable way to Puerto Aventuras is by flying into Cancun International Airport and making your way south. There are no direct buses to Puerto Aventuras, so you must rent a car or take private or shared transportation to your destination.

• Rent a car in Cancun and get to Puerto Aventuras on your own time. 
• Private transportation can be arranged by your concierge or host.
• Sign up for a shared ride with Cancun Shuttles for more affordable transportation.
• Once you are in Puerto Aventuras, you can walk or bike to most of the attractions in town.

What is There to Do in the Riviera Maya?

Puerto Aventuras is best known for its marina and abundant water activities such as sport fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing. Read our blog, Visit the Riviera Maya: Things to Do in Puerto Aventuras, for an introduction to local attractions.

In addition to the wealth of activities available, we also offer convenient access to the top attractions in Mexico, such as Xcaret, Kantun-Chi, Tulum Archaeological Zone, Cenotes, and Chichen Itza.

Where to Stay in Puerto Aventuras

Riviera Maya Haciendas offers our most comprehensive vacation rentals in Puerto Aventuras, with a variety of options to fit every budget! Our luxury haciendas are the largest properties in our collection, ideal for family reunions, weddings, and corporate retreats. We also offer nine villas in Puerto Aventuras and 13 condos, perfect for couples or small families. 

Visiting Puerto Aventuras is made easy with the world-class amenities available with RMH. Book your getaway in the Riviera Maya today!

Remote work has become the new normal, leaving many employees isolated and unmotivated. One of the best ways to combat these challenges is by bringing your team together for a corporate retreat. Planning a retreat is an excellent way to build trust, improve communication, increase productivity, and strengthen company culture. Take your company to the pristine beaches of Mexico’s Riviera Maya and let Riviera Maya Haciendas take care of the details. From your lodging to meals and team-building activities, we have everything you need to plan the perfect corporate retreat in Mexico!

Haciendas Estate Corporate Retreat Amenties

Meeting Venues

There are several spaces available for your team meetings. The Haciendas Estate features inner courtyards, patios, spacious garden areas, and beachside areas ideal for meetings. Keep in mind that these facilities can be designed and adapted to suit your group’s individual needs. 

If the Estate doesn’t meet your needs, we recommend browsing the haciendas individually: Hacienda Corazon, Hacienda Del Mar, & Hacienda Magica.

Team-Bonding Activities

There are endless team-bonding activities available with Riviera Maya Haciendas, including:

• Set out for a group adventure into the Caribbean with our complimentary kayaks and stand-up paddle boards. 
• Host a private yoga class in the courtyard
• Play games of tennis together on our on-site tennis courts.
• Let us arrange cooking classes or tequila tastings with our gourmet chefs
• Discover nearby activities such as golfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, sport fishing, and exploring historical sites.

Staff Service

Our impeccable staff service makes planning your corporate retreat with us more manageable than ever. Take advantage of our exclusive concierge, gourmet chefs, butler services, bartenders, wait staff, daily housekeeping, pool staff, and on-site event coordinator. 

Plan Your Corporate Retreat in Mexico Today!

Are you ready to start planning your corporate retreat in Mexico? Fill out your information on our corporate retreat page, and we will reach out to you about our products and services. Or contact us directly at rentals@rivieramayahaciendas.com and start organizing your retreat today!

The holiday season is upon us, and if you are still figuring out your travel plans, you’ve come to the right place! Riviera Maya Haciendas invites you to spend the holidays in Mexico’s most popular vacation destinations. Our slice of paradise is the perfect place to spend the holidays enjoying pristine beaches, abundant activities, learning fascinating history, and sampling delicious restaurants. 

Spend your holidays on our beautiful Mexico beaches with our collection of luxury villas in the Riviera Maya, and let our team create the perfect vacation for you! Discover our favorite properties available in Akumal, Cancun, Carmen Beach, Puerto Aventuras, and Tulum below:

Cancun Villas

Cancun is one of the most visited areas of Mexico, offering gorgeous beaches, luxury amenities, Mayan ruins, world-class restaurants, and exciting nightlife. Riviera Maya Haciendas offers three luxury properties in Cancun, including Villa Punta Sam. This Cancun Villa offers six bedrooms for up to 21 guests with amenities like a jacuzzi pool, spacious kitchen with bar, game room, and rooftop terrace.

Akumal Villas

Akumal is a charming beach town along the Riviera Maya, perfect for visitors who want a laidback getaway while still being close to the area’s top attractions. Our Villa Alma Rosa offers four bedrooms for up to twelve guests located in an exclusive area of Jade Beach. The property offers direct beach access with complimentary snorkeling and kayak equipment for guests who want to spend their holidays exploring the water!

Playa del Carmen Beach Villas

Carmen Beach, or Playa Del Carmen, is centrally located to everything the Riviera Maya offers, providing a destination where relaxation, culture, and nature meet. Experience the ultimate luxury at Casa Sirenus, a seven-bedroom rental for fourteen guests. This enchanting property offers a tropical indoor garden, gourmet kitchen, swimming pool, jacuzzi, and a beautiful beachfront palapa. 

Puerto Aventuras Villas

Our most comprehensive selection of villas in the Riviera Maya can be found in Puerto Aventuras, tucked away from the more touristy areas of Mexico. Our Hacienda del Mar is a spectacular 15-bedroom property in an exclusive gated community, fantastic for large groups visiting us during the holidays. And smaller groups who want to stay in Puerto Aventuras can select our four-bedroom Casa Sanara or Casa del Agua properties. 

Tulum Villas

Tulum is best known for being the last city constructed and inhabited by the Mayan people. Today, Tulum is a thriving vacation destination, offering fascinating history, beautiful beaches, and abundant wildlife. Our Casa Priakos villa is a five-bedroom property that combines the style of a traditional Mexican hacienda with Mediterranean influences. This beachfront Tulum villa is located in a beautiful private Bay, delivering the perfect private oasis for the holidays!

Let Riviera Maya Haciendas Tailor Your Holiday in Mexico!

Riviera Maya Haciendas is excited to assist you in planning your perfect holiday on the beach. The properties listed above are just a few of our listings; you can find our complete list of luxury villas in Riviera Maya here. Or reach out to us by filling out the form on our winter getaway page, and let us help you find the best property for your group. Escape to the Riviera Maya and create memories that will last a lifetime this holiday season!

Mexico’s Riviera Maya is a one-of-a-kind destination home to stunning white sand beaches, ancient Mayan cities, and lush natural parks. As you are exploring, you may be surprised to learn about the natural wonders hiding right below your feet. These natural wonders are called cenotes, magical attractions that are natural sinkholes containing permanent water. With over 6,000 cenotes to choose from, Riviera Maya Haciendas is here to help you narrow the list to five must-visit cenotes in Riviera Maya. 

A Few Quick Facts About Cenotes in Riviera Maya 

The cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula were created by eroded limestone holes that formed caverns and underground rivers over thousands of years. As you visit our cenotes, we ask that you be respectful of the heritage and significance of these special places.

• The Riviera Maya has three main cenote types: cave, semi-open, and open cenotes. 
• Cenotes have served as sacred spaces to the Maya for thousands of years, serving as their primary water source and the gateway to the underworld. 
• The word cenote comes from the Mayan word “dzonot,” meaning cavern with water. 

Visit These 5 Cenotes in the Riviera Maya

1. Cenote Dos Ojos

Cenote Dos Ojos is one of the most visited cenotes in Riviera Maya and one of the longest underwater cave systems in the world. The two connected cenotes offer crystal clear water, popular for snorkeling and scuba diving.

2. Gran Cenote

This cenote is a famous swimming hole and diving spot in Mexico. Here you can explore a collection of caves on the wooden boardwalks that wind through verdant jungle paths. Grab your snorkel gear and discover the underwater world of this magical cenote full of marine life and unique columns. 

3. Cenote Sac Actun

Cenote Sac Actun is home to the longest underground river in the world and an extensive cave system. Sign up for a guided tour and witness the turquoise waters, stalactites, and archaeological sites.

4. Cenotes Casa Tortuga

Experience a wonderful tour of four cenotes in Riviera Maya at this natural park. Visit the bats at Wisho Cenote, learn about Mayan culture at Cenote Jaguar, and jump into the crystal clear waters of Cenote Tres Zapotecs.

5. Cenotes Kantun-Chi

Discover five magical cenotes at Ecopark Kantun Chi. Learn about the cenotes with a local guide, or create your own tour through the lush jungle trails. The magical waters can be discovered by swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or diving.

Plan Your Riviera Maya Getaway Today!

Discover the unique environment of Mexico during your getaway by visiting the cenotes in the Riviera Maya. Come and experience the magic and bliss our villas and homes offer with Riviera Maya Haciendas. From Puerto Aventuras to Tulum and Cancun, we have the perfect property waiting for you. Make sure to browse our specials to learn more about how you can save on your Riviera Maya vacation!

Chichen Itza is one of the most visited archaeological sites in Mexico today. This number dramatically increases in September, when thousands of tourists make their way to see a glimpse of the Chichen Itza Equinox. During the fall equinox, the sunlight is perfectly aligned to create shadows that resemble a snake descending the pyramid. And this is no accident; this phenomenon was purposefully designed by the Mayans thousands of years ago, showcasing their knowledge surrounding astronomy, architecture, and geometry. Also known as the “Descent of Kukulcan,” the fall equinox will happen between the 22nd and 23rd of September. Mark your calendars and let our team at Riviera Maya Haciendas introduce you to the fascinating history of this Mexico archaeological site.

How was the Pyramid of Kukulcan Built?

The Chichen Itza Pyramid, also known as The Castle or Pyramid Kukulcan, was built between 800 and 900 CE. The building is 55 meters wide and 24 meters high. There are also 91 steps per side that function as a calendar representing every day of the year. The base of the north staircase includes two feather serpent heads placed as effigies to the God Kukulcan. It is in these stairways that seven reversed isosceles triangles create the shadow effect. 

The Descent of Kukulcan

The story of Kukulcan began when the Toltecs invaded the Mayan Peninsula following their God, Quetzalcoatl. It wasn’t long before the Mayan people adopted their God and renamed him Kukulcan. To showcase the power of their God, the Toltecs gathered citizens throughout the peninsula to witness the descent of their God to Earth. Thousands of years later, Kukulcan continues to make his annual descent during the spring and fall equinoxes. This unique show will occur on the 21st of September at around 3:00 o’clock. After about an hour of descent, Kulkulcan will have arrived for another year. 

How Can I See the Chichen Itza Equinox?

In order to see the Chichen Itza Equinox for yourself, you will need to purchase admission tickets for the day of your visit. Enhance your experience with one of the guided tours where you can learn more about the fascinating history and Mayan life. If you want to explore the archaeological sites on your own, use the Chichen Itza self-guided walking tour available with Action Tour Guides. 

What Else Can I See During My Visit?

In addition to the impressive Kukulcan Pyramid, you will also have access to several other heritage sites such as:

• Temple of the Warriors
• Hall of the Thousand Columns
• The Sacred Cenote
• The Ball Game
• The Observatory

Discover Fascinating History in the Yucatan

The Chichen Itza equinox is a bucket-list experience for anyone interested in history, astronomy, or architecture. Even if you can’t make it for the upcoming Equinox, we recommend marking your calendars so you can plan your vacation around this spectacular event in the future. Riviera Maya Haciendas offers beautiful vacation homes along the Riviera Maya from Cancun to Tulum. Discover your dream vacation today!

A Brief History of Mexico’s Independence Day

Mexico Independence Day is celebrated on September 16th, commemorating the freedom of Mexico from Spanish rule. After being under Spanish control for over 300 years, citizens were motivated to revolt by a Catholic priest named Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla. The priest rang the church bells and delivered an impassioned speech known as the Cry of Dolores (Grito de Dolores) that started the Mexican War of Independence. A decade later, Mexico would win its independence from Spain.

Is Cinco De Mayo the Same as Independence Day?

No! Many Americans mistakenly believe that Cinco de Mayo is Mexico’s Independence Day. Cinco de Mayo celebrates the Mexican army’s victory against the French army at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. The holiday is also more popular in the United States to honor and celebrate Mexican culture and heritage. 

How Does Mexico Celebrate Independence Day?

Independence Day kicks off the evening before September 16th. The celebration always begins at the National Palace when the president emerges to recite the famous speech from Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla. This event is broadcasted around Mexico and ends with passionate chants from the crowd saying, “Viva Mexico!” The festivities officially begin after this event, and you can expect other Mexico Independence Day traditions such as:

• September 16th is celebrated around Mexico with fireworks, parades, fiestas, traditional music, food, and folk dancing.
• Food is essential to the celebration, with street vendors serving dishes like pozole, pancita, and enchiladas. 
  • Chiles en Nogada is the most popular dish of the day since the poblano chiles, parsley, cream sauce, and garnished with pomegranate seeds to reflect the colors of the Mexican flag.
• What’s food without drinks? Tequila is a popular drink to celebrate the holiday
• Many families organize house parties and cookouts for Independence Day, while others head to local restaurants or gather for fireworks in town.
  • Playa Del Carmen hosts Mexico’s most patriotic party in front of City Hall, with food, music, drinks, and fireworks to end the celebration.

How to Celebrate Independence Day on Your Own

How does Mexico celebrate Independence Day? In short, it’s a festive gathering that includes parades, fireworks, delicious food, folk dancing, and spending time with loved ones. If you want to celebrate in Mexico, Riviera Maya Haciendas has you covered with our luxury vacation rentals along the magnificent Riviera Maya. And if you are curious about how to celebrate in your state, search for events around September 16th and join a local fiesta nearby!